AMBULANCE VICTORIA STRATEGIC PLAN 2010 – 2012

Workforce demographics and expectations
One of the most significant recent changes affecting ambulance services has
been the move from training of paramedics following their employment to
recruitment of graduate paramedics who have already completed a university
degree. This change necessitates a new focus on workforce planning and
liaison with the universities to ensure future staffing needs can be met. It
has also required the development of programs to support the transition
from university to the operational environment, and further evolution of these
programs is expected.
There has been a major emphasis on improving the health, safety and welfare of
the workforce in recent years, and this will continue with further development of
systems to facilitate early intervention and identification of the root causes
of problems.
The new recruitment and education model is also affecting workforce
demographics, with increasing numbers of younger paramedics and women
employed. At the same time, the number of paramedics in older age cohorts
(greater than 50) is also increasing, especially in rural areas.
These changes, as well as more general social trends, are affecting workforce
attitudes and expectations. In particular, staff concerns about work/life balance
will need to be addressed if AV is to remain an employer of choice. This is
likely to involve increased access to part-time work and continuing development
of alternative roster options. Promoting a constructive culture and further
developing internal communications and consultation will also assist in meeting
emerging staff expectations and improving organisational effectiveness.
The availability of appropriate opportunities for professional development
is another key aspect of meeting legitimate staff expectations, as well as
strengthening organisational capability and facilitating succession planning.
The focus on workforce development includes ensuring that opportunities are
available for volunteers, especially those wishing to become career paramedics.
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